Howard County Child and Spousal Abuse Lawyer

Domestic violence is a general term that refers to violence enacted on a member of a household by another member of that household. In Howard County, policy distinguishes between child abuse and spousal abuse. Although both terms fall under the same umbrella, the consequences of being accused of either may vary. That is why it is imperative that you find a Howard County child and spousal abuse lawyer who will be familiar with those policies. A knowledgeable domestic violence attorney will understand the gravity of these accusations and will know how to approach them.

Child Abuse

Child abuse constitutes any act or failure to act regarding children that could lead to their harm. Cases involving children result in the Department of Social Services becoming involved. In addition to being charged, prosecuted, and convicted of jail time, a person could be sentenced, lose their children, or have them placed in foster care. There are other repercussions because they are children.

Effects on a Criminal Case

If the person is convicted, Social Services has everything necessary to take action against the person without any possibility of them trying to keep their children.

The civil case is usually put on hold until the criminal case is finished.

For child abuse cases, there could be felony charges with considerable incarceration. Besides having a criminal record, someone can be put in jail or prison for a long time and be unable to see their children. There are far-reaching consequences that are immediate and long-term.

Spousal Abuse

Spousal abuse is domestic violence against someone to whom an individual is married. Whether an individual punches a stranger or their spouse, it is still second-degree assault. The relationship between spousal abuse and domestic violence are one and the same.

A person accused of spousal abuse can be incarcerated, placed on probation, and acquires a criminal record. They can be required to go to counseling and obtain mental health treatment among other things. If accused of spousal abuse, the person could be prosecuted and should take the situation seriously because they face significant jail time.

Contacting an Attorney

A person accused of spousal abuse should consult with a Howard County spousal abuse lawyer. Only a local attorney who is familiar with the charges knows the temperaments of the judges and prosecutors, the likely results of the charges, and understands the approaches and strategies that work for some judges but not for others. That intimate knowledge is critical in obtaining a positive result in the case.

A person accused of abusing a child in Howard County should contact a local child abuse attorney. Only a Howard County child abuse and spousal abuse lawyer who is familiar with the charge knows the steps to take; understands the burden of proof the prosecutors must meet; and what social services issues to address. Many different variations and steps should be taken to ensure a good outcome. Because they are only children, it is that much more critical that it be precise and timely.

Facing accusations of spousal and/or child abuse can be a difficult experience. Dealing with the stigma, and the potential loss of relationships is hard enough. The support of a Howard County child and spousal abuse lawyer can be reassuring in this trying time. Reach out to an attorney and know that someone is on your side.